Karl W. Butterer

Erik R. Daly is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Corporate Law, Mergers and Acquisitions Law and Securities / Capital Markets Law. Erik R., who practices law in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has been recognized since 2019. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Erik R. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

James R. Brown concentrates his law practice in municipal law and real property law. He represents many townships, villages, cities and other municipal bodies throughout West Michigan and elsewhere in the state. His law practice has a particular emphasis in the representation of townships, and he serves as general counsel for a large number of townships in Kent County and in surrounding counties. Jim is also an experienced township official, having served for 25 years as chairperson of the Gr...

Nicholas S. Laue is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Commercial Litigation and Litigation - Construction. Nicholas S., who practices law in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has been recognized since 2023. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Nicholas S. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Mark sues insurance companies when they fail to pay claims. Varnum represents only insureds in these matters. Mark has helped shape the landscape of Michigan Insurance Law since 1985.He is regularly asked to speak on insurance issues for continuing legal education programs, and at other bar related activities. Mark is also Varnum's lead attorney in litigation matters dealing with employee benefit issues under ERISA. He has handled all facets of employee benefit litigation, from benefit claims...

Nathan D. Plantinga has been practicing law since 1997 and is the chair of the firm's employment and labor section. He enjoys a busy counseling practice for union and nonunion clients, advising employers on the full spectrum of employment matters, including civil rights charges, difficult medical leave issues, employee discipline and discharge, wage and hour, and unemployment. Mr. Plantinga also specializes in traditional labor work involving collective bargaining, labor arbitrations, unfair ...

Katie has a broad practice that allows her to serve many different individuals and families. She creates estate plans of all types – from those with estate tax issues and succession planning for business owners to young families planning to protect their young children. Katie helps families determine what steps to take after the loss or incapacity of a loved one and works through any probate, guardianship and conservatorship, or trust administration that may be required. She has signifi...

Mark A. Van Allsburg, a native of Grand Rapids, received his bachelor’s degree from Calvin College in 1981, and he received his law degree from the University of Michigan in 1983. Mark is a member of the Grand Rapids Bar Association and the State Bar of Michigan (former Chairman of the State Oil and Gas Law Committee), the Michigan Oil and Gas Association and the Michigan and American Associations of Professional Landmen. Mark is a past chairman of the firm’s Management Committee....

Peter A. Schmidt is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Real Estate Law. Peter A., who practices law in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Peter A. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

With over 30 years of experience, Tom helps people navigate and resolve family law problems including divorce, custody, parenting time, modification of support orders and paternity. Learn more on the firm website.

Mark E. Nettleton practices in the areas of public finance, municipal law, land use and zoning law, and real estate. In his law practice experience, Mark has assisted Michigan counties, cities, villages and townships with bond issues and financing transactions, ordinance and utility franchise issues, intergovernmental agreements, special assessment proceedings, drain proceedings, assessments and financings, and annexation matters. His practice also includes counseling public authorities such ...